Nicholas T. Markell started studying art at an early age in his hometown in southern Minnesota. He earned a Bachelor of Visual Arts degree at the University of Saint Thomas in Saint Paul. During his studies he became increasingly aware of the many ways his growing artistic sensibilities nurtured his faith and after graduating he continued to explore the relationship between artistic expression and spirituality.

Although Nicholas was readily drawn to religious topics and themes, he began to use his art to explore many different subjects in a wide array of commercial and creative styles. The quality and diversity of his portfolio won him respect as a commercial artist in Minnesota where he became an Art Director, guiding creative projects for several prominent organizations.

In 1987 Nicholas followed his religious yearnings and began studying for Christian ministry with the Paulist Fathers. He earned a Master of Arts degree in Theology and a Master of Divinity from the Washington Theological Union. After seriously considering ordination, Nicholas ultimately favored the art studio to the pulpit, where his spiritual quest continues and remains strongly evident in his art.

Working in glass, pigment and graphics, Nicholas conveys a deep understanding of religious and spiritual ideas. Applauded for his artistic excellence, Nicholas' original art continues to be exhibited in numerous galleries and academic institutions nationwide. He has done liturgical work and stained glass for many churches, including St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral in Minneapolis, Saint Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael, Minnesota and St. Thomas More Chapel at Ohio State University.

Nicholas has received numerous accolades and awards in his career, most notably by the Washington Building Congress, PRINT publications and Ministry and Liturgy magazine. He was chosen as the principal artist for Evangelical Lutheran Worship, the chief liturgical books for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Now a master iconographer working in Byzantine and Romanesque traditions, Nicholas instructs students and lectures on Sacred Art and Christian Iconography.

Nicholas established Markell Studios with the goal of serving the ecclesial community through the creation of iconic imagery. Nicholas' images explore art's full spiritual potential by expressing visions of beauty, mystery and meaning. His iconic work serves a transformative as well as an inspirational purpose. Through his art Nicholas Markell invites us to contemplate the deeper aspects of our everyday lives of faith and so help us shape our future.